Merrien has now lost out on the title two years in a row

Guernsey's Alison Merrien narrowly failed in her bid to win the World Matchplay Championship final, losing on a tie-break to Debbie Stavrou.

Stavrou took the first set 9-7, but Merrien bounced back in the second, winning 9-5 to draw level.

However, the Guernsey player was unable to come out on top in the tie-break, with Wycombe's Stavrou winning 2-0.

The result mirrors the 2009 final when England international Stavrou also beat Merrien on a tie-break.

"I knew before we went on that the game would go to a tie-break, so I wasn't worried when Alison won the second set," said Stavrou, who has now beaten Merrien four years in a row in the event.

"I felt a bit fortunate to get the first set - but I'm so happy to win the title again. This is the best place to bowl - I love being here, I love the audience and I love the experience. I just want to keep coming back."

Merrien was devastated by the defeat. "I just didn't feel comfortable out there today and I struggled to find a length I was happy with," she said. "My first bowl was always short but I'll get her one day."

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